Border Collie vs Dutch Shepherd: full comparison
| Trait | Border Collie | Dutch Shepherd |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Energy level | Very High | Very High |
| Trainability | Very High | Very High |
| Friendliness | Medium | Medium |
| Good with children | Medium | Medium |
| Grooming needs | High | Medium |
| Shedding | High | Medium |
| Barking | Medium | Medium |
| Protectiveness | Medium | High |
| Adaptability | Medium | Medium |
| Typical lifespan | 14 years | 13 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
Which should you choose?
Choose the Border Collie if you want a longer-lived breed.
Choose the Dutch Shepherd if you want a more protective, watchful guardian, you prefer lower grooming upkeep, or you want less shedding around the home.
Not sure which breed is right for you?
Take the DoggyQ quiz and get a personalised match from 200+ breeds based on your lifestyle, home and preferences.
Find your perfect match Try the free quizFrequently asked questions
- Is the Border Collie or the Dutch Shepherd better for families with children?
- Both the Border Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are considered good with children when properly socialised and supervised.
- Which sheds more, the Border Collie or the Dutch Shepherd?
- The Border Collie sheds more than the Dutch Shepherd. If shedding is a concern, the Dutch Shepherd is the lower-maintenance choice.
- Which is easier to train, the Border Collie or the Dutch Shepherd?
- Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.